​Most of the big-name NHL free agents have already moved, and with more than 20 teams actively buying, there’s always a handful that still needs an extra piece to be considered contenders. Let’s identify which teams fall into that category and what they must add to bridge the gap to true contention.
The Philadelphia Flyers wouldn’t stand on this list if the Anaheim Ducks hadn’t chosen to match the $18 million AAV offer sheet they sent Carlsson, but since they did, Philadelphia remains a team in need of upgrades. The Flyers surged after the Olympic break and carried that momentum into the playoffs, where they upset Sidney Crosby and the Pittsburgh Penguins. In the second round, they lacked the Carolina Hurricanes’ elite center depth and a true No. 1 center in Sebastian Aho. Their blue line could also use some strengthening. If Philadelphia can relegate Christian Dvorak to a second-line center role rather than a first-line role, their depth chart would look considerably better.
GM Daniel Briere and his staff will need to address this before another power winger, Porter Martone, requests a trade, echoing the earlier situation with Cutter Gauthier. The Montreal Canadiens are in a similar position: they brought along a young squad into the playoffs, showed some promise, but were ultimately bounced by the Hurricanes. For Kent Hughes and his colleagues, the need isn’t a top-line center, but a strong option on the second line. Jake Evans, Phillip Danault, and Oliver Kapanen all performed solidly, but as the playoffs progress, a high-end player at that position becomes more valuable. While Dylan Larkin isn’t on the trade list, he is a likely departure from Detroit, and Montreal, with its assets and willingness to spend, is a team that could pursue a player of his caliber.
When looking at the five best NHL teams on paper after the start of free agency, the conversation shifts to the teams most likely to contend in the coming season. As the NHL’s 2026 off-season unfolds, which five clubs appear destined to sit at or near the top of the standings? Here’s a best-guess ranking based on the current rosters and free-agent activity.
The Edmonton Oilers, having reached two straight Stanley Cup Finals but fallen short each time, face a concise window with Connor McDavid’s future uncertain. They need to pivot quickly to sustain competitive chances. To do so, the Oilers must add another top-six forward who can responsibly defend and contribute offensively, capable of playing alongside either McDavid or Leon Draisaitl. Right now, DailyFaceoff.com lists Isaac Howard as McDavid’s left winger, and while he has shown flashes, Edmonton will need to pursue a bona fide top-six winger to demonstrate their commitment to contending. With limited assets, their search for that piece will be a defining challenge of the off-season.